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Review:
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Swedish band Paatos were first founded back in 1999,
and have three albums under their belts, but the last was
back in 2006. Now they have returned with new members and
a new record label. Their music is midway between Porcupine
Tree and The Gathering, with echoes of Pink Floyd, Yes and
Camel, producing a sound that glides and soars effortlessly
with a power and grace, topped by Petronella Nettermalm's
strong pure voice that reminds me of Anneke van Giersbergen,
and occasionally like a female Jon Anderson. The emphasis
is on melody, texture, ambiance, mood, atmosphere and musicianship,
not noodling solos, a perfect example being the deceptively
simple 'Shells', an almost child like nursery rhyme clothed
in a sophisticated but understated accompaniment. Songs
like the powerful opener 'Gone' (on Female Voices blog),
the dramatic title track 'Breathing' and the sublime 'Precious'
have an emotional charge that is palpable. This is heightened
by a sense of Jacques Brel sepia tinged melancholy and nostalgia
that permeates the album, intangible but affecting. There
is no reason why gothic and alternative rock/metal fans
won't enjoy this album, yes there are moments of pure prog,
but the songs are so strong, melodic and emotive. Their
website is http://www.paatos.com/news.html
and you should find it widely available, an emotive 8.75
out of 10.
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